Can a Landlord Charge for Refrigerator Cleaning?

Refrigerator cleaning charges are often disputed because landlords expect to wipe down appliances between tenants anyway. The best disputes focus on condition evidence and a reasonable scope of work.

When the charge can be legitimate

• Food residue, odors, or spills required extra cleaning beyond routine
• The fridge was left dirty enough to require a deep clean
• Charge is supported by an invoice or reasonable labor breakdown

Red flags

• No photos of fridge interior condition
• Flat "appliance cleaning" fee with no breakdown
• Charging premium rates for basic wipe-down work

What to ask for

• Photos of fridge interior at move-out
• Invoice/work order and scope of cleaning performed
• Any move-in documentation showing prior condition

How to dispute

1. Request evidence and scope details for the fridge-specific work.
2. Attach your move-out photos showing the fridge interior.
3. Dispute charges that appear to be routine turnover cleaning.

Start with the dispute template, then escalate to a demand letter if the landlord won't correct it.